Dr
Carlos Granja
(Institute of Experimental and Applied Physics, Czech Technical University in Prague)
The compact light weight SATRAM payload is operating onboard ESA’s Proba-V satellite in low Earth orbit since 7th May 2013. Equipped with the Timepix chip the device can determine the composition and spectral characteristics of ionizing radiation (X-ray, light and heavy charged particles) in the satellite environment. Single quantum counting capability and per-pixel energy sensitivity enable quantum-level detection, high resolution tracking, LET sensitivity and directional visualization of energetic charged particles over a wide dynamic range of particle fluxes, energies and wide field of view. A description of the payload is presented together with preliminary data results such as spatial and time correlated maps of dose rate along the satellite orbit.
Summary
SATRAM is a technology demonstration payload as a spacecraft platform device on-board ESA’s Proba V satellite flying in LEO orbit. The payload contains an FPGA controlling the Timepix detector and provides communication with the spacecraft, along with housekeeping, data compression and configuration. Including the Aluminum alloy compartment the payload has dimensions 108 mm × 63 mm × 56 mm, volume 380 ml and total weight 172 g. The payload features 28 V voltage input and power consumption ≤ 3 W. SATRAM is the first deployment of the Timepix detector in outer space. The payload has been successfully commissioned. Research performed in frame of the IEAP CTU and Medipix Collaboration. Project funded by the European Space Agency, Grant No. 4000105089/11/NL/CBi (641-120004M).
Dr
Carlos Granja
(Institute of Experimental and Applied Physics, Czech Technical University in Prague)
Dr
Alan Owens
(ESA ESTEC)
Mr
Daniel Turecek
(Institute of Experimental and Applied Physics, Czech Technical University in Prague)
Mr
Jan Mares
(CSRC)
Dr
Karim Mellab
(ESA ESTEC)
Mr
Marek Simcak
(CSRC)
Mr
Petr Vana
(CSRC)
Dr
Petteri Nieminen
(ESA ESTEC)
Dr
Stanislav Pospisil
(Institute of Experimental and Applied Physics, Czech Technical University in Prague)
Mr
Stepan Polansky
(Institute of Experimental and Applied Physics, Czech Technical University in Prague)
Mr
Zdenek Dvorak
(CSRC)
Mr
Zdenek Kozacek
(CSRC)
Mr
Zdenek Vykydal
(Institute of Experimental and Applied Physics, Czech Technical University in Prague)
